Boudoir photography is all about capturing intimate and sensual moments in a tasteful and artistic way. As a boudoir photographer, it’s important to know how to pose your clients to create a flattering and empowering image so they leave feeling better than they came in! I’m going to share 10 boudoir photography posing tips to help you create a flawless and unforgettable boudoir shoot.

Start with Comfortable Poses

So many clients feel uncomfortable or nervous during a boudoir shoot, so start with comfortable and easy poses to help them relax. Or a drink, whatever works for you. You can start with sitting or lying poses, or even have your client simply stand with their back to the camera to ease into the shoot.

You’ll want to ease yourself into the shoot as well, so knowing that those beginning shots may not be winners, is ok! You’re both getting the feel for the day.

Use Natural Light

Natural light is a boudoir photographer’s best friend, as it creates a soft and flattering effect. Use windows, doors or other sources of natural light to create a romantic atmosphere. And once you’ve gotten those natural light shots, play around. See how harsh light can up your game and create more dynamic in some photos.

Experiment with Different Angles

Try different angles and perspectives to create dynamic and interesting shots. Shoot from above, below, or from the side to capture different parts of the body and create a variety of poses. I’ve got a specific posing guide that goes through all the types of posing I do from standing to sitting to lying down. It also comes with a cheat sheet that you can carry with you to shoots so you never feel like you’ve run out of ideas.

Focus on Body Language

Body language is key when it comes to boudoir photography. Encourage your client to relax and use their body language to create a sensual and confident pose. This can be in the smallest movement. You’ve been them in a pose, but how can we push it a little with the slight movement of a hand or having the face make a certain facial expression. It’ll add diversity to your poses.

Show off the Legs

Legs are a great focal point in boudoir photography. There are more #buttguys than #boobguys right? Don’t quote me on that. Use poses that show off the legs, such as lying on the back with the legs bent, or standing with one leg slightly bent. Legs can help create the ‘S’ shape with the body which is usually a more flattering pose for people.

Use Props

Props can add a unique and personal touch to a boudoir shoot. Use items such as flowers, sheets, or even a part of the lingerie to get creative with posing.

Encourage Movement

Movement adds an element of playfulness to a boudoir shoot, and can make your client more comfortable. When you’re moving, you think less about what you look like. Encourage your client to move around, play with their hair or clothing, and experiment with how their body looks. It’ll also help cause you can get some of those trendy blurred images.

Focus on the Eyes

The eyes convey a lot of emotion in boudoir photography. Encourage your client to look directly into the camera, or look away to create a mysterious and sultry pose. This can alone change a pose from one thing into another. Don’t just think about posing as something we do with our bodies, it encompasses all of our body, including the face and eyes!

Use Negative Space

Negative space can create a minimalist and artistic effect in boudoir photography. Use it to highlight specific body parts, like the neck or shoulders, or to create a sense of depth and space around your client. It can totally change the feel of image to go from maximalist to minimalist.

Be Empowering

Boudoir photography is a transformative and empowering experience for women. Most clients walk into the room feeling nervous and lacking confidence and walk out feeling renewed. Encourage your clients to express their individuality and beauty, and help them create an unforgettable image that they will cherish for years to come.

Boudoir photography is a beautiful and intimate art form that requires creativity, sensitivity, and skill. By following these 10 boudoir photography posing tips, you can create a flawless and empowering boudoir shoot that will leave your clients feeling confident, beautiful, and empowered.

If you want to plan your own shoot, or want to know when my next studio day is, reach out to me!